Lake Manyara National Park- Travel Tips

What to See, How to Plan & Tours

Introduction to Lake Manyara National Park

Situated in northern Tanzania between the Rift Valley escarpment and a broad soda-lake, Lake Manyara National Park offers a diverse and compact safari experience. Covering an area of around 648 km², the park was established in 1960 and lies conveniently close to Arusha, making it a practical stop on the famed Northern Circuit.

Within its narrow footprint the park accommodates a remarkable range of habitats—from alkaline lake flats and floodplains to dense groundwater forest and steep Rift cliffs—giving it visual appeal and ecological richness.

Because of its accessibility and variety, Lake Manyara is often described as a gentle introduction to safari for first-time travellers, yet it still delivers memorable encounters.

Wildlife, Nature & Key Attractions

One of the park’s most famous features is its population of “tree-climbing lions”. These lions may be found resting in fig or acacia branches above the forest floor—a behaviour rare elsewhere. Alongside them roam large herds of elephants, buffalo, giraffe and other mammals, particularly around the lake’s margins and woodland.

For bird-watchers, the lake and floodplain attract an extraordinary variety of species. Thousands of pink flamingos may gather when conditions are right, while forest and woodland zones host hornbills, storks and many more.

The variety of habitats is key: the shallow soda lake covers a large portion of the park, supported by groundwater-fed forest and the steep escarpment of the Rift to the west. These contrasting landscapes enhance the safari experience.

Activities range from standard game drives along the lake’s edge or through woodland, to guided forest walks and bird-watching vantage points. While the park is smaller than some of Tanzania’s mega-reserves, its compact nature means you can cover a lot in a shorter time.

Planning Your Visit

Regarding timing, the park is generally accessible year-round. Dry months (July to November) offer easier game viewing, while bird activity and lake water levels may be most dynamic during and after rains. Travel logistics are straightforward: it sits about 126 km from Arusha and can be reached by road in roughly 1.5 hours. Accommodation varies from lodge-style to camps, and staying overnight rather than just a short stop will enhance your experience.

Visitor tips:

• Go early morning when wildlife is active and fewer vehicles are on the road.
• Consider entering via the less-busy southern gate to avoid crowds.
• If birding is your aim, allocate time near the lake shores or wetlands.
• Lake Manyara fits well as part of a multi-day safari combining parks like Tarangire and the Ngorongoro Crater.

Whether you’re drawn by the tree-climbing lions, vast flocks of flamingos, or the dramatic Rift Valley backdrop, Lake Manyara National Park offers a rich and accessible safari stop. With thoughtful planning, it can deliver both depth and beauty in a relatively compact setting.